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In this issue
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
What’s New At MPI-NJ? Page 4
Are You Listening? Page 5
16th Annual MPINJ Golf Outing Page 6
New, Affiliate and Transfer Members Page 9
MPI-NJ Scholarship Winners Discuss The WEC in Las Vegas Page 10
Meet the MPINJ 2013 Board of Directors Page 14
Strategic Partners Page 18
MPINJ Administration Page 20
S
eptember brings an end to summer and vacations and a return to our professions. I hope your summer was filled with great memories and renewed spirits. As we begin the new fiscal year, I would like to share with you some new initiatives already in place. First we made OnSite public, non-members can now view our digital newsletter and hopefully join our great NJ Chapter! The Chapter’s Golf Tournament was a huge success and I extend my appreciation to the Golf Committee for their dedication and commitment. The Education Committee is continuing to enlist pioneering speakers and we are returning to hosting education programs at different venues. Membership is committed to fully engage our new members in order to enhance the MPI experience. The Sponsorship Committee will debut a menu of friendly strategic sponsorships opportunities.
2013 MPI-NJ Events September 23, 2013 8:00am 11:00am Legal Panel with Lisa Sommer Devlin, Esq. and Barbara Dunn, Esq. Hilton Short Hills Short Hills, NJ
October 29, 2013 11:30am 2:30pm “Food Fight” Ocean Place Resort & Spa Long Branch, NJ
I was fortunate to attend MPI’s World Education Conference, held in Las Vegas July 20-23. I, and other NJ Chapter members, returned with a renewed level of education and great ideas to take the Chapter to the next level. Two of our Scholarship winners, Merlene Wilder, CMP and Carol Malinky, CMP chose to attend WEC to increase their knowledge and make more contacts in the meeting industry.. This year’s WEC theme was “When we meet, we Change the World”, I say, “When the NJ Chapter meets, We Change the Chapter.” I look forward to connecting with you at our breakfast education program on September 23, at the Short Hills Hilton. The topic is “The Lawyer’s are in” by Lisa Sommer Devlin, Esq. and Barbara Dunn, Esq. Happy September! Julia
Other MPI Chapter & Industry Events GNYMPI October 9, 2013
October 15 – 17, 2013
IMEX America 5:30 8:30pm Sands Expo State of the Industry with Michael Las Vegas, NV Dominguez, Chairman MPI Intl. November 19 – 21, 2013 New York, NY EIBTM OTHER INDUSTRY EVENTS Barcelona, Spain
September 45, 2013 HSMAI's MEET National Walter E. Washington Convention Ctr Washington, DC
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What’s New At MPI-NJ?
I
hope everyone had a nice, relaxing summer. Now that everyone is back at work and recharged, there’s no better time than now to join Meeting Professionals International – New Jersey Chapter and make a commitment to being a part of this wonderful chapter! Now that we are offering our bimonthly on line newsletter, OnSite, to the public, we wanted to reach out and make sure you are aware of the importance of being a MPI Member!
Here are some of the MPI Member • Awards and Recognition – MPI Benefits: RISE award recipients are worldwide for • MPI Community Directory – recognized innovation programs, social allows you to connect” with other impact and positive influences in members across the globe the meetings and events industry • Job Board – Posts open positions • MPI Scholarships include and resumes and search for academic, professional development, current positions and MPI programs, and other
• Exclusive Research – MPI
industry events.
produces white papers and reports If you are not a member of MPIto keep members up to date on NJ but would like to see if MPI-NJ current industry issues is a fit for you, please attend our • Industry Certification – Obtain first educational breakfast a certification in meeting program of the year on September management, the most prestigious 23, 2013. If this is your first MPIHow much does it cost? Click here designation for meeting NJ educational program, you can to find out what other benefits are professionals in the industry attend at the lower member rate. available to you. here for details and to • Webinars – Listen and watch Click register! If you are already a member of expert speakers and programs MPI-NJ Chapter, then get more from your home or office. Social media at MPI-NJ! MPI-NJ involved! Click here to see a list of Webinars from MPI International chapter news and important committees. Click here to sign up are FREE, on demand, and earn happenings can be found on the on our volunteer form. If you are CMP’s or those applying for their following social media sites. a member of another great MPI CMP additional educational clock Chapter, you can also be a Be sure to click on the ICONS hours Member of the New Jersey to LIKE US, FOLLOW US, • Supplier Marketplace – Connect below Chapter as an Affiliate Member! and LINK WITH US! with 20,000 + meeting and event The fee is only $99.00 per year professionals through and you get all the benefits of a sponsorships and advertising MPI-NJ Member! Ruth Marion, • Chapters – Network with local CMP There is so much more to why you colleagues and potential clients, should be a member than the MPI-NJ Chapter receive continuing education units benefits and discounts listed Administrator (CEU) for attending local below. MPI-NJ members support educational programs 201-875-2476 and recommend each other rmarion@mpinewjersey.org • Discounts – Conference professionally. Having the MPINJ Chapter logo on your website, member registration fees and discounted sponsorship fees letterhead, or business card is priceless. MPI-NJ members • The Meeting Professional network together, do business Magazine (previously One+) – together, and learn from each Collaboration of news and updates other. for planners and suppliers
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6 september/october 2013
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SIXTEENTH ANNUAL MPI-NJ GOLF OUTING - LA
T
he Sixteenth Annual MPI-NJ Golf Outing was held on June 20th at Royce Brook Country Club in Hillsborough, New Jersey. Golfers, sponsors, board members and spectators enjoyed a beautiful summer day and a great opportunity to support the Chapter. Over 131 golfers made up 33 foursomes to compete in the Scramble tournament raising funds for the MPI-NJ Chapter. In addition, over 186 golfers and supporters turned out later in the afternoon for the spectacular reception, dinner, Awards Ceremony and amazing Raffle prize event.
Thank you to our Golf Outing Sponsors: Ah Massage Bar Anaheim/Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau Bellagio Las Vegas Boca Raton Resort and Club Caesars Entertainment Chauncey Hotel and Conference Center Garces Group Glen Cove Mansion Gran Melia Puerto Rico Hello! Destination Hilton Luxury Resorts Hilton New York Hilton San Diego Sales Complex Hilton Worldwide JW Marriott and Ritz Carlton Orlando Grand Lakes Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority Lowes Hotels Loews Universal Orlando Resorts Marriott International Marriott Marquis Maui Jim Melia Hotels International MGM Foxwoods MGM Grand
Mohonk Mountain House NYC& Company Ocean Place Resort and Spa Omni Hotels and Resorts Omni San Diego Hotel Orlando World Center Marriott Quebec Tourism Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago Revel Resort Carlson Rezidor Hotels Rosen Hotels Rosewood Hotels and Resorts Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem Short Hills Hilton The 180 Group, Inc. The Peabody Orlando Universal Orlando Venetian/ Palazzo Visit Orlando Visit Pittsburgh Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater Waldorf Astoria Chicago Waldorf Astoria Naples Westminster Hotel Wyndham Hotel Group Wyndham Orlando Resort Wynn Las Vegas/Encore.
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ARGEST FUNDRAISING EVENT OF THE YEAR!
Tournament Stats
Golf Committee
And the winners were...finishing in First Place was the foursome of Past President, Mike Shannon, Ron Marantz, Ira Almeas and Paul Coiante. In Second Place was Mike Basso, Chris Nyikos, Jeff Nyikos and Steve Mauro. And, finishing in Third Place was Paschal Brennan, Doug Nicol, Rob Tallman and Frank White.
Congratulations and thank you to Golf Committee Chair, Todd Steinberg, Sonesta Hotels, and Golf Committee Co-Chair, Betsy Grey, Melia Hotels International. Steinberg praised the Golf Committee and shared credit with RBCC for the event: “We moved the outing back to RBCC because they are a true partner to MPI-NJ and Lynn Sexton, Director of Sales, has been a pleasure to work with.�
Winner of the long drive on the 14th hole was Chris Nyikos. Long drive champ on the 16th was Tom Rooney.
Continued on page 8
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GOLF OUTING
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7)
Golf Committee Members Beth Bauer, Hilton Hotels Worldwide; Elizabeth Baum, Chateau Elan Winery and Resort; Kellie Cahill, CMP, Hilton New York; Catherine Diem, Hilton Worldwide Sales; Kaaren Hamilton, CMP, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group; Rocco LaForgia, Hilton Hotels Worldwide; Timothy Lescoe, Grand Lakes Orlando; Missy Madden, East West Connection; Nancy Miller, CMP, Verizon; Shar Mueller, MEGA Resource Group; Greg Porcino, Gem Events; Michael Shannon, CMP, MGM Resorts International; Celestina Sierra, CMP, Maritz Travel; Patty Stern, CMP, DMM Group Communications; Nicole Swanander, Mohonk Mountain House; Melissa Ullmann, Loews Philadelphia Hotel; Pamela Wynne, CMP, CMM, Merck& Co.; Eduardo Zuniga, Hilton Hotels Worldwide Here’s to the Sponsors The Chapter extends great appreciation to Wynn Las Vegas/ Encore for the Gold Sponsorship. In addition sponsors for Golf Holes, Grill Stations, Cigar Cart, Healthy Snack Cart, Bottled Water Cart, Starting Sleeves, Bag Sponsors, and Pin Flags to make this the largest fundraising event of the year!
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New, Transfer & Affiliate Members NEW MEMBERS
TRANSFERS
AFFILIATE MEMBER
KAREN DEFINI Executive Assistant Wyndham Hotel Group 22 Sylvan Way Parsippany, NJ 07054
ALYSSA LIPPINCOTT Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem 77 Sands Boulevard Bethlehem, PA 18015
KATIE SCHULTZ Ace Conference Center 800 Ridge Pike Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
LISA DRAKE Social Sales and Marketing Ocean Place Resort & Spa One Ocean Boulevard Long Branch, NJ 07740 ROBIN PRAKASH Director of NE & Pharma Sales PGA National Resort & Spa 400 Avenue of the Champions Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
This listing contains all New Members, Chapter Transfer Members and Affiliate Members from July 1, 2013 to July 31, 2013. If you should not be listed please contact: rmarion@mpinewjersey.org
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MPI-NJ SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS TELL
M
erlene Wilder, CMP and Carol Malinky, CMP were the two recipients of this year's MPI-NJ Chapter WEC scholarships. They both decided to use their scholarships to attend WEC (World Education Congress) in Las Vegas, which was held at Mandalay Bay from July 19-July 23, 2013. Here they share their experiences... CM: Merlene, I had a great time at WEC. It was educational, inspirational, emotional, and fun. The theme was "Transformation" which carried out throughout the 5 days. Since we attended different educational sessions, tell me about three of your favorite sessions and what you learned. MW: Digital Storytelling...telling your story through Social Media - Jim Spellos is one of my favorite speakers. I really enjoy his engaging style. We discussed how to sell your brand or product by telling a story using a variety of Social Media: Blogs, Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, Storify, etc. Your story needs to speak to others and have a universal theme and using Multi-Media attracts more attention. Talking about the Generations- Meeting Design for Four generations - Jackie Mulligan’s discussion was geared to entertain the various generations: Baby Boomers, Generation X, Y & Z. We were given a variety of scenarios and placed
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ALL ABOUT THE WEC IN LAS VEGAS Post-its on the “Silhouette Cut Outs” that represented the different generations. Generation X, Y & Z prefer shorter meetings & opportunities to make new contacts. Considering the needs of the different generations will make for a more successful meeting. WEC for me- Getting the most from WEC 2013 - Midori Connolly & Jessica Levin gave a very “interactive orientation of the WEC,” taking us on a tour and navigating the different areas. The highlight for me was the icebreaker activity. We had to find our counterpart based upon a card we were given when we entered the meeting room. I met a young lady who’d arrived the night before from India (on a 23 hour flight). She was at the WEC for a presentation and it was her first time in the USA. CM: Although it is difficult to pick just 3, my favorite educational sessions were: One+ Newsletter Redesign - Since I am the Director of Internal Communications for MPI-NJ, I wanted to learn about the redesign so I could bring back some ideas for Onsite. David Basler, MPI International's Editor and Chief, and his team gave a fascinating glimpse as to the evolution of both the One+ publication and plans for the newsletter. I learned members want stories about other members and best practices. Members also want shorter stories so they have time to read them and incorporate what they learned into their events and businesses. Also, more casual photos that tell a story should be incorporated into the magazine. As we all know now, One+ was renamed "The Meeting Professional". Behind the Scenes of MPI's Opening General Session: From Concept to Production - Mike
Silvestro and Michael Wohlitz of Freeman took us on a backstage tour of what went into making this year's General Session. Since this year's General Session was set “theater in the round” with the stage and screens in the center of the ballroom, it was interesting to learn how Freeman dealt with everything including lighting, screens, speakers, teleprompters, etc. to create this wonderful production. Sipping on Ideas at the World Cafe: Winner of the "WEC Meeting Design Contest" for Senior Planners Only - this was one of the best sessions I attended. Theresa Breining broke the groups down into different areas of interest where everyone shared their ideas and best practices. I sat in Meeting Management and then the Design group where the ideas kept flowing non-stop. We were all still sharing ideas as we were leaving the room. MW: Carol, what were the highlights you took away from the General Sessions, Flashpoints, and Luncheons? CM: There were so many wonderful highlights. The Opening Session included us all receiving drum sticks which we used to play along to high energy songs and also to Continued on page 12
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MPI-NJ SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS TELL ALL ABOUT applaud the speakers. The Flashpoints, General Sessions, and Luncheons provided speakers who evoked laughter, tears, inspiration, and ideas. The Rise Awards Luncheon made us all proud for the people who won and represented some of the “best of the best” MPI members. The Closing General Session had us walking into "Don't Stop Believing" and included the popular "I am MPI" from various presenters. CM: Merlene and I both attended the Helping Hands Community Service Project which thousands of people attended to build hands for those who lost their hands due to landmine explosions. It was heart-warming to see MPI members working together for a great cause. There were some on our team who were good technically and others (like me) who were better with writing the letter and designing the bag the built hand would be placed into. Merlene, you also attended another charity event. Tell us about it. MW: CLEAN THE WORLD – founded in 2009, Clean The World collects & recycles soap & shampoo products discarded by the hospitality industry. The items are then distributed to impoverished people preventing millions of deaths caused by hygiene related illnesses. On Saturday, July 20th approximately 20 attendees were taken to the Las Vegas Recycling Center. Our task was to pack almost 1,000 ziploc bags with a variety of toiletry items (shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc). Since 40 attendees had originally registered, we had quite a challenge ahead of us. While music
played in the background, we had two (2) assembly lines set-up to accomplish the tasks. Many in our group got creative and a little competitive by filling 2 bags at once. The last item was to include a note of encouragement in the bag. In less than an hour, ALL bags were done and going to be distributed to a local group. CM: What other areas of the conference did you attend? MW: Market Square was located on two floors and attendees were able to meet with a variety of MPI suppliers during breaks. Many attendees (including myself) took advantage of the opportunity to have free headshots taken by Orange Photography. Montreal Tourism was offering “Breakfast in Bed” with yogurt, orange juice, croissant, fruit and a carafe of coffee delivered to your room. In the Wynn bag we were given tickets to Le Reve – The Dream. The show combined synchronized swimming & aerial acrobatics - it was amazing! MW: OK, Carol. I know we both had fun at the social events. Tell me your highlights and I will tell you about mine. CM: I can only tell you what I can in this article. The rest "Stayed in Vegas” (both laugh). Merlene - remember the first evening event at Margaritaville? The event was on one of the patios on the upper level outside. They made the best strawberry margaritas. Then... MW: Yes, then came the major storm or monsoon with heavy rain and the winds blowing the palm trees and the lightning bolts - wow!
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T THE WEC IN LAS VEGAS
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CM: I never saw lightning bolts that were horizontal as well as vertical. It was something I will never forget. MW: I really enjoyed the Chapter leaders Forum Breakfast. Dave Mitchell of the The Leadership Difference gave us a questionnaire relating to understanding people. What one person says can be interpreted to mean something totally different to someone else. After answering a variety of questions, it was determined what kind of personality we had. I’m happy to report I am a romantic! CM: My evaluation indicated I am a mastermind, but it is not what it sounds like. It just means I am creative. The two sponsored breakfasts by Mexico and Calgary were fabulous as well. MW: On Sunday, July 20th, my first indication of what was in store for me at the Calgary Stampede Breakfast was getting my great Cowboy hat. I entered the room to the sound of Country Western music playing from the live band @ 7:30 in the morning. Many of the attendees were up doing line dancing already‌a little too early for me. But this really gave a great jump start to my day! CM: And we learned it is "Yahoo" not "Yee-haw" we should be shouting! CM: I absolutely enjoyed the social event at the Venetian - great food, fun blue drinks, a bar filled with lots of candy, faux tattoos (I got a rose and triple 7's) photo ops, an 80's band, and... MW: And Billy Idol!
Continued on page 19
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MEET THE MPI-NJ CHAPTER
PRESIDENT
PRESIDENT ELECT
Julia Ramos, CMP JR Global Events Associates, LLC Jersey City, NJ Phone: 201-333-8834 Mobile: 201-779-2990 Email: juliaramos@comcast.net Year of MPI Membership: 2003
Pam Wynne, CMM, CMP Merck, Co., Inc. Whitestone Station, NJ Phone: 908-423-0526 Email: pamela.wynne@merck.com Web: www.merck.com Year of MPI Membership: 2001
Chapter Leader of the Year: 2011, Meeting Planner of the Year – 2010, WEC Scholarship 2012
Committee(s) Served:
President Elect, VP Education, VP Membership, Committee Member Membership and Ambassador
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Traveling, Golf, Reading and Cooking Julia Ramos, CMP, is a freelance meeting manager and founder of JR Global Events Associates, LLC, and has been engaged in the meeting industry for over 20 years. Her event planning processes are rigorous and thorough from site inspections to negotiating hotel and vendor contracts, lead and manage daily operations of events and supervise staff across all functions and areas of responsibilities. She possesses multi-cultural understanding by working collaboratively with varied cultures on a one-on-one basis. Julia comes from a corporate background that expands domestic to international meeting planning and management. She has an undergraduate in Business Management from FDU, she received her CMP in 1999, and is an active member in good standing at MPI since 2003. Julia was born in Spain, is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, and lives in Jersey City, New Jersey, with her husband. She loves travelling, dogs/cats, reading and taking golf lessons.
Committee(s) Served:
VP of Communication, Chair of Newsletter Committee
A strategic, dynamic meeting and travel industry professional, Pam is currently an Account Manager at Merck, Inc. where she leads her clients on project management, cost containment, and virtual meetings strategy. She began her career in the meetings industry as the Manager, Corporate Meeting Planning at Educational Testing Service where she was responsible for the creation of the company-wide consolidated meetings department. Next serving as the Vice President of Operations at EMC Venues, a marketing and meeting planning firm, she was responsible for the creation of SMMP programs across a variety of industries. Her most recent positions include managing meeting planning teams at Janssen Pharmaceuticals and BCD Meetings and Incentives at Pfizer, Inc. Pam has been a speaker for Meetings Professional International on the topic of Strategic Meetings Management. In addition to other keynote topics about the meetings and travel industry, she also is certified to teach Etiquette and Protocol. She has been featured in Meeting News, Business Travel News, Convention South, The Meeting Professional, and has been the focus of the editorial in Corporate Meetings and Incentives Magazine. Pam received her CMP and CMM designations and is currently working on Lean Six Sigma Certification.
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Michelle Wescott, CHSP Skytop Lodge Skytop, PA Phone: 570-595-8937 Email: mwescott@skytop.com Website: www.Skytop.com Year of MPI Membership: 2003 PEC Scholarship ~ 2006, Outstanding Chapter Leader ~ 2007
Committee(s) Served:
Membership Committee and Ambassador Committee
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Camping, Reading, Spending time at the beach
Michelle is a Corporate Sales Manager at Skytop Lodge, a beautiful historic hotel in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania and has been with the property for 15+ years. She obtained her Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) designation in 2008. Michelle has been a member of the New Jersey chapter of MPI since 2003 and has been serving on the Board of Directors for the past 5 years. She was the VP of Education and held positions under Membership. Michelle grew up on the Jersey Shore, but has been living in PA for almost 20 years. She has been married to David for 14 years, has 2 children, Ashleigh (11) and Nathan (8), and enjoys spending time with her family.
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2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
VP FINANCE
VP COMMUNICATIONS
Todd Steinberg, CMP Sonesta Collection Newton, MA Phone: 862-228-7079 Email: tsteinberg@sonesta.com Web: www.sonesta.com Year of MPI Membership: 1998
Mary Lou Pollack Ocean Place Resort and Spa Long Branch, NJ Phone: 732-571-5739 Email: mpollack@oceanplace.com Wewb: www.oceanplace.com Year of MPI Membership: 2013
Committee(s) Served: Education, Membership, Golf Committee 2012, Chair Golf Committee 2013 Favorite Past time/Hobby: Spending time with my family Todd is a Global Account Director with Sonesta International Hotels Corporation with more than 14 years of experience in the lodging industry. He has held national sales management positions with Intercontinental, Hilton, Spirit Cruises and Dolce Hotels & Resorts. Todd, a CMP, has been involved in all aspects of hotel sales, both for hotels and management companies. In his current role, he is responsible for overseeing group sales from the Northeast region for Sonesta’s growing portfolio. Todd has been involved with numerous charities throughout his career including The Make A Wish Foundation. He makes his home in New Jersey and enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
Committee(s) Served:
Communications Committee
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Jogging at the beach and Cooking Mary Lou Pollack is a 25-year veteran of the hospitality industry whose strategic planning skills, sales and operational prowess, commitment to delivering immediate results and ROI, and motivational capabilities have engendered industry-wide recognition. . In November of 2012 she joined AFP Management as Director of Sales and Marketing for the Ocean Place Resort and Spa in Long Branch, New Jersey. as part of a newly formed executive team charged with relaunching and repositioning the resort and conference center. Previously she was one of a handful of female general managers of major city hotels, Ms. Pollack steered The Alex (205 East 45th Street in New York City) to great success from opening in 2003. Her work has been recognized with the Frank W. Berkman “General Manager of the Year” award (2007) in New York, given by the Big Apple Chapter of HSMAI. In the same year she received the very prestigious “Award of Excellence” from the Leading Hotels of the World at the annual conference in Monte Carlo.. A graduate of Duke University, Ms. Pollack is the former Chairman: New Jersey Travel Industry Association, President: Maryland Chapter of HSMAI, Advisory Board: Carino Hotels and Resorts , General Managers Committee NYC&Co. and Founding Board Member: The East Side Business Alliance NYC.
VP EDUCATION Kellie Ann Cahill New York Hilton Midtown New York, NY Phone: 212-261-5966 Email: kellie.cahill@hilton.com Web: www.newyorkhilton.com Year of MPI Membership: 2007
Committee(s) Served:
VP Finance, Strategic Partnerships, Golf and Auction Committees
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Cooking and Spending time with kids Kellie Ann Cahill is Director of Sales and Marketing at the 1,981room Hilton New York, the largest hotel in Manhattan and the
flagship New York City property of Hilton Worldwide. Kellie, a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), has more than a decade of sales, marketing and managerial experience, having held numerous positions that have contributed to the successful generation of over $200 M in room and conference sales annually at the Hilton New York. In her current role, Cahill oversees the entire sales and marketing direction of the hotel to include: leisure and group bookings, advertising, events, management of a 15-person sales team, and responsibility for a more than $13M sales and marketing budget. She currently plays an instrumental role in developing a comprehensive sales and marketing initiative aimed at repositioning the Hilton New York. This effort involves the relaunching of the hotel’s food and beverage outlets and newly refurbished ballroom and meeting space, thus reinvigorating the hotel’s image in the highly competitive and ever-changing New York City marketplace.
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MEET THE MPI-NJ CHAPTER 2013
VP MEMBERSHIP
VP ADMINISTRATION
Chet Jasinski, CMP Event Management Specialist South Bound Brook, NJ Phone: 908-234-1481 Email: vpmembership@mpinewjersey.org Year of MPI Membership: 2005
Kaaren Hamilton, CMP Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group Lyndhurst, NJ Phone: 908-448-7804 Email: khamilton@carlsonrezidor.com Web: www.carlsonrezidor.com Year of MPI Membership: 2006
2012 WEC Scholarship Recipient, 2011 – 2012 MPI-NJ Supplier of the Year, 2010- 2011 President’s Award, 2009 – 2010 Committee of the Year - Ambassador’s Committee.
Committee(s) Served:
VP Communications, Ambassador and Website
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Avid baker, Experiential design, San Diego Comic Con Chet Jasinski, CMP has been a member of MPI New Jersey since 2005 and earned his CMP in 2008. He been part of the meeting and event industry for 13+ years and is currently consulting as an Event Management Specialist. In the past 7 ½ years he gained invaluable experience at the Garden State Exhibit Center and NJ Convention Center as the Sales and Marketing Manager where he created strong partnerships with the surrounding hotels that booked attendees and guests from many of the shows and events. He is well known for his knowledge of meeting and event management, logistics, contract negotiation, hospitality acumen and as a go-to person for technology and social media.
Supplier of the Year, President's Award
Committee(s) Served:
President, Past President, VP Education
Kaaren Hamilton, CMP is Vice President, Global Sales for Carlson Rezidor Hotels. In this position, Ms. Hamilton oversees the North American based global sales organization for the group segment. Ms. Hamilton leads a dynamic sales organization of senior global sales directors and is responsible for significant annual revenue. Active in several industry associations, she is a frequent participant in industry forums, panels and committees. Ms. Hamilton began her career with Trusthouse Forte hotels in London, England completing a two year training course in some of the city's most luxurious hotels.
When Chet became a member of MPI-NJ he joined the Ambassador Committee and with his strong forte' in website design he was asked to Co-Chair on the Website Task Force to transition the MPI-NJ chapter to a Content Management System (CMS) based website and worked diligently creating the new website. He then moved to Chair of the Website Committee overseeing the launch of the second phase of the MPI-NJ website and trained the current Website Committee members. Afterwards he accepted a position on the MPI-NJ board of directors as Vice President of Communications and Marketing 2011 – 2013 and continues in a leadership role as Vice President of Membership.
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE Michael Brill MEDALS LLC (Medical Education Delivery, Advisory and Logistics Support) Milltown, NJ Phone: 732-659-1133 Email: medalsllc@aol.com Year of MPI Membership: 2001
Committee(s) Served: Finance Favorite Past time/Hobby: Travel and Watching Rutgers Sports Michael Brill received his Bachelors of Arts in Business Administration with a minor in Zoology from Rutgers University in 1977 and then his MBA in International Business Strategies in 1983. After a long and successful financial/administrative career with Kraft General Foods. Mike joined Merck & Co., Inc. in 1997 in their Worldwide Human Health Division as an Associate Manager for the International Professional Events Department, specializing in the Dermatology franchise. Mike continued
his career in the medical education and therapeutic liaison field with Merck in additional therapeutic areas, including, cardiovascular/diabetes, ophthalmology, neurology, osteoporosis and arthritis/pain. He was a key collaborator in the successful launches of such blockbuster drugs as Propecia™ , Vioxx™, Arcoxia™ and Januvia™. Mike’s final role at Merck was Director of Global Academic and Professional Affairs (GAPA), providing a leadership role in the creation of quality medical education programs and effective professional relations with global opinion leaders and therapeutic medical societies. Mike recently retired from Merck and has created a consulting firm called, MEDALS LLC (Medical Education Delivery, Advisory and Logistics Support). MEDALS LLC provides medical education content development, medical congress/scientific society expertise/advice, exhibition consulting, advisory board management and logistic support for global and regional medical education programs and congresses. Mike is the Director of Finance for MPI-NJ, President-Elect and Acting Treasurer of the Rutgers Alumni Association and is a Certified Ostomy Visitor (UOA).
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS
17
(CONTINUED)
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
DIRECTOR OF INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS
John Pursel Hyatt Regency Jersey City Jersey City New Jersey Phone: 201-469-4763 Email: John.pursel@gmail.com Web: jerseycity.hyatt.com/ Year of MPI Membership: 2008
Carol Malinky, CMP C.A. Malinky Communications Ridgewood, NJ Phone: 201-232-0110 Email: Tmalinky@aol.com Year of MPI Membership: 2002
Supplier of the Year 2012
Committee(s) Served:
september/october 2013
Committee(s) Served: Communications, Student Development
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Flying, Playing Guitar
Community Outreach and Internal Communications
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Golf, Gardening, Going to Broadway shows and Travel
John began his hotel career in the front office at the Westin Morristown New Jersey. After gaining experience in the operations side of the hotel industry John moved into his first sales position with Hilton Hotels. After Hilton he moved on to Starwood Hotels as a Sales Manager and finished there as Senior Sales Manager at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel and Towers. From there he joined the Marriott Sable Oaks as Assistance Director of Sales. John is currently at the Hyatt Regency Jersey City team as Associate Director of Sales and has been for three years.
Carol Malinky, CMP, has worked in the meetings and events industry for over 20 years. She has created, produced, organized, and managed corporate events/meetings, trade shows, association meetings, experiential events, sales meetings, media events, and incentive/award meetings for 200-10,000+ attendees.
John was the Communications Committee Chair for MPI New England before moving back to New Jersey. He was most recently the Student Development Committee Chair in New Jersey Chapter and is now the Director of Strategic Partnerships.
She enjoys the creative process, working with speakers and celebrities, traveling, and most of all working with a team to develop unique and memorable experiences for the attendees.
In his time off John enjoys flying, his wife and two dogs and playing his guitar.
Carol has developed innovative events for such companies as Mercedes-Benz, Capital One, Century 21, Remington, Coldwell Banker, Stryker, and Colgate-Palmolive to name a few.
Carol also likes to give back to the community by volunteering her event services to the Children's Specialized Hospital, the New York Food & Wine Festival to raise funds for the Food Bank, and participating in local community theater productions to raise money for scholarships. Her joys in life include her family and friends, her cats, playing golf, gardening, going to Broadway shows and travel.
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Nancy Sutta Berns Morristown, NJ Phone: 732-886-8852 Email: nsuttaberns@optonline.net Year of MPI Membership: 2003 Committee of the Year 2012 and WEC Scholarship 2012
Committee(s) Served:
Community Outreach, Membership
then to meeting management and retail public relations. She has managed association events for the shopping center industry, and corporate and incentive programs domestically and internationally in the finance, insurance, telecommunications and manufacturing industries. As a Freelance Program Manager, her current concentration is on scientific conferences. Nancy is active member of her synagogue and a Sisterhood Past President, as well as donating time as a personal shopper for Operation Holiday, with the Morristown Women’s Club.
Favorite Past time/Hobby: Travel, Dining, Wine, Shopping (for new trends), 70’s pop music, Collecting cookbooks
Presently, Nancy’s travels are taking her to New Orleans, Orlando, Beaver Creek, Las Vegas, Tucson and San Jose, for management of scientific conferences, attendance at trade shows and personal excursions with family.
Nancy Sutta Berns began her career in advertising and broadcast production, leading to event management in sports marketing and
Nancy resides in Morristown, New Jersey, with her husband, Robert, and their high-energy son, Noah.
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www.mpinewjersey.org
MPI-NJ CHAPTER would like to acknowledge and thank our Strategic Partners for their Support of the Chapter
Gold Wynn Las Vegas 7027707000 www.wynnlasvegas.com
Pocono Mountains 5704215791 or 1800POCONOS 18007626667 www.PoconoMountains.com
EMCVenues 8004905976 www.emcvenues.com
Bronze
Silver
College of St. Elizabeth 9732974000 www.cse.edu/rentyourspace
Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center 7329329144 ruicc.rutgers.edu
Skytop Lodge 8553457759 www.skytop.com
Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem 8668255361 www.pasands.com
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september/october 2013
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SCHOLARSHP WINNERS TELL ALL (Continued from page 13) MW: Did you get to play in the Poker Tournament at Caesars? CM: Yes - they were kind enough to find me a seat at the table. I know all the casino games and was ready to win big (with the faux money). The Tournament started and I realized they were playing Texas Hold'em. That is the only game I didn't know how to play. I quickly learned, but didn't last too long. However, I did get a fun swag bag!
LARGEST CONFERENCE CENTER IN THE ROCKIES (BOOYAH)
CM: Merlene, I know you were right near the stage to see Country singer, Dierks Bentley, perform. I enjoyed the concert. How did you enjoy the final night event? MW: The final night at Mandalay Beach was great…originally planned to be on their “beach”, the weather wasn’t cooperating, and as we planners know you need to have a back-up plan. Therefore, the final night was moved to the Event Center. The food was wonderful, a selection from the different restaurants the Mandalay Bay had to offer - House of Blues, Lupo (Wolfgang Puck), Fleur, and many more! My favorite was the FROZEN Popcorn. The music talent Dierks Bentley was great. Standing near the front of the stage EVERYONE had their phones up recording and taking photos. Dierks remarked he never had so many business cards on a stage before! MW: Carol, any other highlights you would like to share? CM: In between the educational sessions, I attended Starwood's slot tournament where groups of MPI members would compete on slot machines. The highest score throughout the WEC would win their famous Heavenly Bed. I didn't win the bed, but I did win a spa gift certificate from EventMobi! How about you, any other highlights we forget to mention? MW: The WEC 2013 app was a favorite of mine; it had everything you needed to navigate the WEC. It featured the Schedule, Attendee List, Speaker List, Photos (attendees uploaded), City Guide, etc. and
A mountain of possibilities.
KEYSTONECONFERENCES.COM | 877.625.1539
my favorite “Play the Game,” sponsored by the San Francisco Travel/Geoteaming. The object of the game was to accumulate the most points by taking photos and “checking in” at a variety of exhibitors in Market Square. When you went into Play the Game there was a list of instructions, Check In (visiting the exhibitors and putting the code#), and Objectives (taking photos @ WEC and in Vegas). After uploading the photos or codes you were alerted to how many points you gained. I was checking the Leaderboard to see where I was in the scores. It was very interactive and I met many attendees as we were all trying to get that winning photo! Prizes were given daily. I didn’t win but I sure had fun trying! CM: It was such a great trip to network with other MPI members and learn about all the latest technology and event ideas. MW: I know we both appreciate the opportunity that MPI-NJ gave us to attend this year’s WEC. CM: OK Merlene - one last time. CM: and MW: Vegas Baby!
20 september/october 2013
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EXECUTIVE BOARD President Julia Ramos, CMP JR Global Events Associates, LLC 2013338834 juliaramos@comcast.net
PresidentElect Pam Wynne, CMM, CMP Merck, Co., Inc. 9084230526 pamela.wynne@merck.com
Past President Michelle Wescott, CHSP Skytop Lodge 5705958937 mwescott@skytop.com
VP Administration Kaaren Hamilton, CMP Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group 9084487804 khamilton@carlsonrezidor.com
VP Communications Mary Lou Pollack Ocean Place Resort and Spa 7325715739 mpollack@oceanplace.com
VP Education Kellie Ann Cahill, CMP New York Hilton Midtown 2122615966 kellie.cahill@hilton.com
VP Finance Todd Steinberg, CMP Sonesta Collection 8622287079 tsteinberg@sonesta.com
VP Membership Chet Jasinski, CMP 9082341481 vpmembership@mpinewjersey.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Director of Internal Communications Carol Malinky, CMP C.A.Malinky Communications 2012320110 tmalinky@aol.com
Director of Education Nancy Sutta Berns Nancy Sutta Berns, LLC. 7328868852 nsuttaberns@optonline.net
Director of Finance Michael Brill MEDALS LLC (Medical Education Delivery, Advisory and Logistics Support) 7326591133 medalsllc@aol.com Director of Strategic Partnerships John Pursel Hyatt Regency Jersey City 2014694763 John.pursel@gmail.com
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september/october 2013
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COMMITTEE CHAIRS Ambassador Committee
Membercare Committee
Jennifer Sena, Chair Puerto Rico Convention Bureau 2017665205 jsena@prcb.org
Rebecca Wakefield, CMP, Chair Heather Boyle, CoChair KPMG LLP Destination Hotels 2013077259 2012840295 rlwakefield@kpmg.com hboyle@destinationhotels.com
Awards & Scholarship Committee
Bruce Boillotat, CoChair Royal Coachman 9734003204 bruce.boillotat@royalcoachman.com
Jamie Keith, CMP, Chair Hilton Woodbridge 7326037790 Jamie.keith@hilton.com
Ronnye Schreiber, CoChair Planet Connect 7324033116 ronnye@planetconnect.com
OnSite Committee
Student Leadership Committee
Education Committee Lisa Kelly, Chair The Charles Group, Inc. 9735751444 lisak@thecharlesgroupinc.com Rhonda Moritz, CoChair Cadaret Grant and Company 9737702300 rmoritz@cadaretgrant.com
Ilyse Link, CMP, CoChair Parexel 2018835814 Ilyse.link@parexel.com Patty Stern, CMP, CoChair DMM Group Communications 9736692891 patty@groupdmm.com
Strategic Partners Committee
Melissa Winfield, Chair Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group 9739199125 mwinfield@carlsonrezidor.com Linda SantangeloMosley, CoChair Santangelo Consulting, LLC 9736151398 lsantangelomos@optonline.net
Special Events Committee Merlene Wilder, CMP, CoChair UniRec 9733259111 merlene@unirecgames.com
Chapter Administrator
Dagmaris Graziani, CMP, CoChair Ruth Marion, CMP 9176202762 MPI NJ Chapter Dagmaris.graziani@gmail.com Phone: 2018752476 rmarion@mpinewjersey.org
MPI New Jersey Chapter Invites you to attend all our exciting upcoming events